The sky was brilliant, and air musty, and the traveler squinty eyed. It is time for the 2009 NSTA Conference, and thousands of science teachers, at least those from dryer climes, are finding the same thing. New Orleans is bright, hot, and humid. I imagine things pick up at night.

 

On my way to the Convention Center, I noticed this lovely double porch next to St. Patrick's Church.

 

The sense of lazy order I carried with me soon departed. As I said, teachers are arriving, and they're getting here early.

 

 

 This line queued up well before registration opens at 5 pm.

 

Meanwhile, inside, exhibitors were tossing boxes and skid pallets aside as they set up.

 

The conference is in motion. What do you want to see?

 

— Tyson Brown